We recently caught up with Danielle Hollenshade who told us she had retired from competing. Her many fans will no doubt be happy to learn she is doing well and transitioning into a new career. Luckily she is still working as a personal trainer and if you’re in South Florida and looking for a serious fitness professional, you should contact her. Have you been wondering what Danielle has been up to? Read on.
Danielle, what’s new with you? Anything in the works?
Nothing to exciting….I am living a pretty boring life right now. I am back in school working towards my nursing degree and training clients. School has been my new focus so for now my competing days are in retirement. I can say that school is just as demanding and requires so much of my time. I would never be able to go to school, work, and compete….that would be way too much on my plate.
Are you still competing?
I am happily retired since 2007.
Any words of wisdom for anyone out there thinking about getting into the competition circuit?
If you are thinking about competing, I think it’s a great goal. Its very challenging and takes you not only physically but also mentally to a different level. You see that you can achieve more than you ever knew you could. The best advice I can give someone though is to always maintain balance with in every aspect of their life. It’s a very challenging sport and at times demands everything you have. But the most important thing in life is to have fun and enjoy life, so never forget about your friends and family. They will be your biggest support system through your show and for the rest of your life.
If you could change anything about your career, what would it be?
I am very blessed to have accomplished so much. I achieved every goal I set out to achieve…so I would not change a thing. Although now with school…I wish I would have gone to nursing school back when I got my first Bachelors Degree, because it’s a lot harder going back after 10 years.
We heard you were pursuing your nursing degree, how is that going?
Great, I have not started the core program yet. I had to complete all of my science classes this past year before I could start. I am finishing chemistry right now and hope to get into a program no later than next August.
Why did you become a personal trainer?
Working out and being active has always been a part of my life. It was always so much fun for me. In college, my internship was with a corporate fitness center… I loved the ins and outs of running a gym. I used to teach every group class, train clients, and I was the assistant director of a gym. I love working with people one-on-one or in small groups. I love helping people achieve their goals and feel better about themselves. When I moved to Florida I focused only on my personal training business and love what I do every day.
How long have you been training clients?
Since I graduated from college in 2000.
Do you have a particular exercise philosophy that you subscribe to?
I believe in a total, complete healthy lifestyle in all aspects of one’s life – physical, mental, and emotional. Each aspect affects the other and therefore works with each other. When a person is in great physical shape, they feel great, and more effectively handle life and get the most out of each and every day. They feel more confident, look and feel healthier, have more energy, and do more things.
How do you tailor workouts to fit your client’s needs?
Every client that comes to me is different. I look at the client’s current and past health history. I look at what fitness level they are starting from and what their goals are. I also look at their personal lives in terms of work and family responsibilities. This is a big factor in terms of the time they have to commit to working out and making it a lifestyle change. Based on that I tailor their workout program and nutrition program to reach their goals.
How long should people work out for?
Weight training 2-5 times a week, cardio 3-6 times per week 30-60 minutes. But everyone is so different so this will vary based on current fitness level and goals.
Do you have any suggestions on how someone can get started on an exercise regime?
I think the best way is to join a local gym. This way you are around people that are physically fit, who also make fitness a part of their lives. This helps people getting started since support can be a great motivation. Getting a personal trainer is always the best way to go. This way, they can help you develop a plan that is best for you to achieve your goals. Since money can be an issue, look into just getting a few sessions with a trainer (5-10) to get you started and feeling confident. I don’t believe that 1, 2 or even 3 sessions is enough to get new people comfortable to train safely and effectively on their own.
What type of cardio is best? And how much cardio should someone do a day?
I believe the best type of cardio is the cardio you enjoy doing the best. If its not fun your not going to do it or stick with it. For me, running outside on the beach is the best. It clears my head and I love being outside. Plus I sweat so much more and the high intensity is better for me. But everyone is different…some people need a 1 hour a day of cardio, others need 30 minutes 3 times a week. It truly depends on your goals and where you are starting from. I don’t believe there are any rules set in stone.
Do you have any interests outside of the fitness industry?
I’m a very low key person. After years of going 100 miles per hour, I know love to relax more than anything. I love going to the beach, reading, going to the movies, going out for sushi, and just hanging out with family and friends.
Where will you be in 20 years?
Hopefully happily married with a family, but you never know what turns life has for you…20 years seems like forever away…I don’t know where I will be in 5 years….I’ll let you know when I get there.